Category: Stewardship

Guest post by DJ Connors

Urban nature preserves are essential green spaces that provide an oasis for wildlife and people alike. These preserves are not only places of beauty and recreation. They also play a crucial role in wildlife management, particularly when it comes to controlling deer populations. Let’s explore the importance of deer hunting in these areas and how it benefits both the environment and the community.

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DJ Connors

Guest Blogger

DJ Connors, a Central Indiana native and late-to-life hunter, combines a lifelong appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors with a deep passion for exploring the natural beauty of the area he has called home for most of his life. As a husband and father of three, he is committed to ensuring his children have the same opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the outdoors in their community. DJ’s unique journey into hunting emphasizes sustainability, responsible stewardship, and the importance of preserving these experiences for future generations.

by Grace van Kan, White River Steward

Halloween is nearly upon us, and if you visit the hardware store as often as I do, you know Halloween decorations have been out since July. Among the giant skeletons and ghoulish snow-globes you will find another cute creature ubiquitous with Halloween: the bat. Continue reading →

Grace van Kan

White River Steward

gvankan@conservingindiana.org

312.286.2484

Grace grew up roaming the woods, creeks and wetlands around the Chesapeake Bay watershed. From an early trout-raising project to a “gap year” spent restoring coral reefs in Thailand, her interest in aquatic conservation has only grown. Now she cares for several riverine nature preserves as CILTI’s White River Steward.

By Lee Casebere

The well-known scientist E.O. Wilson wrote in 2006, “More respect is due the little things that run the world.” I want to further explore why it matters that many species of plants and animals around the world are disappearing due to human actions.  Continue reading →

Lee Casebere

Guest Blogger

Lee Casebere, a longtime CILTI supporter, is a naturalist, ecologist, and nature photographer. He is the retired assistant director of Indiana DNR’s Division of Nature Preserves.